Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Area Studies - Global Science, Sustainability and Health Concentration

The BA in International Area Studies is an interdisciplinary, intercultural and interactive major that links language study with other academic disciplines such as politics, history, economics, sociology, anthropology, literature and philosophy. Students develop intercultural awareness and the critical knowledge and skills necessary to understand current global political, social and economic trends. The major prepares students to become responsible citizens who are aware of larger world issues and local concerns, and who are able to draw on their knowledge of the humanities, social sciences and sciences when considering these issues. The interdisciplinary nature of IAS in particular is a key strength: rather than focusing on a single field (e.g., politics or anthropology), students can create a cohesive course of study while sampling classes from around the University. This concentration provides a solid social science and humanities education, along with grounding in the scientific and technical aspects of global development and trans-boundary environmental issues. Language courses and courses in sociology, anthropology, politics, history and other fields prepare students to be global citizens and to have knowledge of diverse cultures and global governance. In addition, students will study issues such as environmental science, international public health, development and sustainability. Drexel offers various study abroad opportunities in Europe and around the developing world, where students can get hands-on experience in global development work as well as honing their language skills. Students in this concentration will have a heightened awareness of the global challenges posed by environmental change, population growth and continuing poverty in a global context. This is the ideal concentration for those interested in working with the UN and other economic development and social services agencies, or in pursuing higher education and employment in public health, environmental sustainability and international social work.